JSON-LD vs Microdata vs RDFa: Which Structured Data Format Should You Use?

Use JSON-LD. Google supports JSON-LD, Microdata and RDFa, but recommends JSON-LD because it sits in a separate script block instead of being woven through your page markup. That makes it easier to add, check and change without breaking the visible design.

How each format works

• JSON-LD: a block of data in a script tag, separate from the page content.
• Microdata: attributes added directly to the HTML elements that display the content.
• RDFa: another attribute-based format used inside the HTML.

A JSON-LD example

<script type="application/ld+json">
{
  "@context": "https://schema.org",
  "@type": "Organization",
  "name": "Example Co",
  "url": "https://www.example.com"
}
</script>

Why JSON-LD is easier

Because it is separate from the layout, a developer can add or edit it without touching the design. It is simpler to generate, copy and test, and it avoids mistakes that arise when attributes are scattered across templates.

When the other formats make sense

Some older systems output Microdata automatically, and replacing it may not be worth the effort. If it validates and matches the visible content, it still works. Do not run two conflicting sets on the same page.

Generate and test

Create valid JSON-LD with my free schema markup generator. For basics read what schema markup is, and for fixing problems see how to fix structured data errors.

Frequently asked questions

Next steps

See where to place JSON-LD on a page, or contact me here for help.